The intervention program was based on the principles of the DIR/FloortimeTM
intervention developed by Greenspan and Wieder (1997). The first author, an
occupational therapist, provided instruction to all families on implementation of
the DIR/FloortimeTM intervention. Prior to the study, the first author studied
the DIR/FloortimeTM model from books (Greenspan & Wieder, 1997; Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders [ICDL], 2009) and a
DVD lecture of the PLAY (Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters) Project
model. In addition, she underwent 25 hr of structured, intensive, and supervised
training in the DIR/FloortimeTM model provided by an experienced therapist who
certificated from the ICDL.